Day Five, September 8th! of Trey's Trek continued...

Tony Hall on his second day of "Trey's Trek" as we walked through Flint

This morning, Pastor Bob Roberts came and fetched us from the Hotel and we went to breakfast with him.  I tell you...I am so thankful for friends!  Then he took Tony and I back to the Church so we could pick up the "Trek" where we left off yesterday.  He prayed for us and we headed out to the front of the church and up Porter Road to East Hill Road.  As usual, the first mile or so for me,  is used to work out the kinks in my socks and shoes as I walk along!  Just getting comfortable in my feet is important since they are the "thangs" that carry me along!  Without my feet, there would be no connection with the ground!  Without my 'spiritual feet' there would be no connection with following Jesus!  (just a thought!)  So I have learned by now to not tie my shoes too tight and also that cotton socks can blister my toes and feet!

Just over from where Porter and E. Hill intersect is the road we walked up that eventually turned into Martin Luther King Avenue.   That road carried us straight North, through the middle of downtown Flint.

When Tony and I reached E. Hill, we crossed over at the red light and walked on the North side of the street. There was no side walks there so we had to watch our step as we trekked along in the grass.  The reason we crossed the road was to be able to walk facing the traffic.  Personally I want to see what is 'coming at me.'

By this time in the trip I had found a small orange, triangular "caution" flag that I had duct taped onto the lower part of my walking stick.  (those are awesome instruments!)  I usually held that particular walking stick in the hand closest to the traffic as we walked along.  So when there were cars or trucks or whatever coming at us, I could wave at them and the walking stick would come up and the orange flag would wave and we would at least get noticed!   I can tell you that I waved at 'alot' of people who drove by.  And wouldn't you know it! Most folks would wave back!  There was only one guy on this Trek, just one person that was not really cordial!  He had a mouth like sewer!  I just wonder where he went to school?  If, in his English class the teacher taught him to talk like that or did he just not pay attention to what words mean?  Or did he even know the definitions of the words that spewing out of his mouth!  I am sure that his "Momma" didn't teach him those words!  

But culturally for me, 'waving' at folks is something that you have do... to atleast acknowledge them!  Like you are saying..."hey, have a good day!" or  "God Bless you!"  or  "Jesus Loves you!"  Acknowledging folks is important to me!   I think that it does a person good, to be greeted with a smile, not matter who it is!

So when we turned North onto 'South Saginaw Road', it was a major 'thorough fair' with a lot of traffic! There was really no side walks on this street but plenty of businesses with driveways that even had "green" areas that we could walk on.  But we had to watch for cars coming in and out of those places of business!  Being a bit more cautious was in order now because of the amount of traffic that was passing by.  But it was an interesting stroll through that portion of town, just South of Flint.

It was on this street where I purchased another American flag.  The first one I had was really ragged!  It would not be until tomorrow that I would find a 'pole' suitable enough to attach it to.   It fit well on my backpack and was light enough to carry but strong enough to shoulder the flag and high enough to be seen by those passing by as we walked along.

As we entered the Downtown area of Flint, it was around mid day and people from the surrounding businesses and City Government seemed to be outside getting some exercise or going to and or from lunch.   About midtown...

Trey... coming into Flint, MI


Tony and I saw a restaurant on the West side of the Street.  People were lined up on the inside to be able to order.  So we stopped and went in.  We joined the line up to order!  Good basic burgers they were!  If you are in downtown Flint, I recommend the place! 

Halo Burger, Downtown Flint, MI 
(people were standing in line to be able to eat in this place!)
[google maps photo]

So as we were waiting to get in the door, there was a man outside asking for some assistance.  It didn't seem like many people where paying him any mind!  So I greeted him and asked if I could help.  I introduced myself and asked him his name, which he told me but for the life of me, as I am writing this, I cannot remember!  I must be getting old!  I did not forget his name because our friend was not worthy of being remembering but that I just 'flat out' forgot!  I am so Sorry!  But if you are reading this and  know this person; just drop me a line and I will add his name in!  


We talked for a few minutes and I found out that he used to work in Flint for many years at one of the GM plants.  Now since work is almost non-existent at most of these plants, many people are out of work!  It broke my heart to know that such a fine man was out here asking for help like this!  So I invited him to have lunch with Tony and I.  He graciously accepted and we stood in line to order our food. Then we sat down to eat...together!  We thanked the Lord Jesus for our food and spent about a half hour eating and talking.  I wish I could have done more for him today but right now, sharing a meal in this crowded place was what we could do!  Thank you for taking the time to eat with us, Sir!  Maybe there will be a next time!  Maybe next time, you will have to buy me a meal!  Only the Lord knows!  Either way, I was thankful that we were able to spend some time together over a meal.  It reminds me of a sentence that I read in The Revelation that says... "the Spirit and the bride, say Come!"  And let him who hears say, "Come!"   Whoever is thirsty, let him come; and whoever wishes, let him take the free gift of the water of life."  
'Ah'lan wa Sah'lan, Ya'll!

A friend we met in Flint!  We had lunch together!

Day FOUR (out of order) September 8th! Trey's Trek continued...

The Marines have arrived!  My friend Tony Hall

This morning I started out with a new walking partner, Tony Hall from Auburn Hills Assembly of God.  His Pastor, Cal Garcia joined us on the first day of Trey's Trek when we started out from our office on Michigan Avenue and now we are getting ready to leave from the Hubbard's home in Fenton, on our way up the road to Grand Blanc.  We had walked less than 30 minutes out from Mark's house, headed North when a News Paper reporter from a local Dearborn Paper called and wanted to write an article about "Trey's Trek."  


So for about 20 minutes we talked back and forth as he asked me questions about the 'this and than'!   So the whole time I was on the phone talking to the Reporter, Tony and I were walking up some of the steepest hills in the area.  Now, for the life of me, as I sit here now thinking about it... I really can't remember trekking through that area!  Strange... but we had to have walked that way, to get to Fenton up Denton Hill!  

Just to digress a bit, Tony did arrived yesterday afternoon at the Hubbard's home and we spent the night at a local hotel that Mark put us, up in.

Another friend, Jason Wolford (also a Marine!) came over from Howel, MI and we all had supper at an awesome restaurant there in Fenton.   Mark, Tony, Jason and Me had some wonderful fellowship.  They all stayed the night because Mark because so graciously booked that hotel.  (the other reason was that his house was being remodeling!)  It was just an enjoyable time to be with 'Brothers' and encouraging each other!  No pretense, no nonsense (well, maybe some 'none sense!'...but you know what I mean!) and alot of laughter!  Just real Friends!  Thanks Men!

Mark Hubbard! (we will see him again!)
He calls himself the "Traveling Gnome!"

So here it is, the forth night and I still have not been able to get a real good night's sleep since we left Dearborn!  I can tell you that my body is a bit weary but strong!  That may sound like a contradiction in terms to describe what I was feeling but after walking three straight days without a break in between the days; I was "feeling" weary.  But I think that I am actually getting into shape both physically and emotionally, even though I walked over 300 miles during a two month period in July and August while preparing for this event.  


What was different about the first 300 miles was that those miles in preparation had a rest period in between each day that I walked. Now, although my body is tired, I can feel the endurance and the strength in my muscles actually building!  It is a strange 'combination' but if you pay attention to how your body is reacting to what you are doing, you will be able to take advantage of building up the endurance that is needed in an event like this;  to be able to go the distance!  Even in life... situations that you face can be the same as far as 'not giving up' goes,  in regards to you doing what you have set out to do!

So Tony and I came up Denton Hill Road and walked into Fenton, headed North.   We jogged over to N. Leroy Street after getting to the center of town and walked on North.  This Road eventually turned in to Fenton Road that took us up into the Grand Blanc area.

Then we intersected with E. Grand Blanc Road and turning right where we crossed over I-75 to Porter Road.  From there the road wound around and took us on up to the Church, New Life Christian Fellowship where we stopped for the Day.

I-75 was the first major express-way that we crossed over, on the Trek. When I reached the middle of the bridge, I stood there and thought about where we were at that point!  "Wow..." I thought to my self!  "I have walked to Grand Blanc, MI from Dearborn!  This is unbelievable!"  I stood there on that bridge for just a moment and pondered what was taking place!  Amazing!

The "rock" just over the mail box is where we rested!

Just to digress a bit; as we were walking up Fenton Road we took a about a 15 minute break at a place called, "Camp Copneconic".  We sat down on a big rock at the entrance of the camp and rested our feet and got something to drink!  It was there where Tony discovered that he had developed a blister.  So I was able to help him out with his foot so we could finish the trip!  Thank God for Mole Skin!

Resting at Camp Copneconic! (on a huge rock!)

Tired feet at Camp Copneconic

Brother Tony nursing a blistered foot walking up from Fenton...

Who says older people aren't 'tech savy!"

Brother Tony!  WE MADE IT!  

Trey..."WE DID IT AGAIN!"

Tony shod his feet again and we set out for the last part of the trek for today!  After we arrived at the corner of E. Reid Road and Porter in Grand Blanc, I took Tony's picture just to show, 'ya'll' we did it!'    Then he took my picture.  Both of us were 'well worn' this day!  But we looked better than we felt!

Then after we "stood in" for those "Hollywood", "photo opps," we walked around to the back of the church where the entrance was located and tried to look like we had only walked across from the street!  But after trekking over 14 miles...that is hard to fake!   All I can say is...that Brother Tony's hair looked the same when we got there as when we left!  That hat that he was wearing did not give him 'helmet hair' in the least!  I guess being a Marine helps you discipline 'everthang!'

As we were standing in the lobby of the church one of the secretaries went and fetched brother Bob and he came out like all of us preachers like to do... and greeted us!   Then he took us into his office like a good politician and we had another 'photo opp!"  I love this photo!   Pastor Bob looks like a President who is visiting his 'home ranch' and we just happened to 'pop in' on him!  LOL!  Really!  This man is an awesome Brother who knows Jesus and treats all he meets just like what Jesus would do!

This was a wonderful ending to a day of walking that was unique!  Pastor Bob helped us by getting a hotel room for us, which was an awesome treat!  In fact he even came back and took us to breakfast the next morning and brought us back to the church where we were able to continue trekking North through Flint!

Trey, Pastor Bob Roberts, Tony

Tomorrow promises to be a day like no other.  We will head North again through Flint, Michigan!  What will happen?  Who will we meet?  What will we see?  To date... 'tomorrow's Trek', will be the most interesting day yet!  It will be over 18 miles in trekking up to Mt. Morris...straight up M.L. King Avenue!  Help us Jesus, we need Your strength!

See ya'll later!

With 'our' feet on the Ground

Simply Trey

Day THREE (out of order) September 7th! Trey's Trek continued...

Mark Hubbard and Trey Hancock

We awoke up this morning and got ourselves ready to continue the Trek North... My friend Mark Hubbard, Grand son of the famed 'Orville Hubbard', long time Mayor of Dearborn came down from Fenton, MI to walk with me today!   The route North was to run right by the Hubbards home, so Mark decided that he would join me!

Today 'this man' was a real encouragement to me!  His upbeat attitude and outlook on life is contagious!  First of all, I did not have to walk by myself and second, he talks to you!  In fact I really learn from Mark!  He not only has neat stories to tell but his experience with Jesus is something else!   He is better than a "Talk Radio Station"!  If I were in Alabama, I would probably say it like this... "He can talk the back legs off a billy goat..." but I am not in Alabama right now so the Talk Radio (word picture) will have to suffice!   Besides he never repeats himself and everything that he says is awesome!  And when he laughs... The trees shake! 

"Hubba Bubba!"
(standing in front of an ant hill!)

But don't mess with him, he will make you think that he can immobilize you with those "Jew jit sue" moves he knows!  But I learned the greatest counter to that stuff!  Just bite whatever is closest to you and the 'hold' just goes away! It's that Simple!  LOL!  Ask him 'if it ain't so!"


It was to be a shorter trek today but mid way through the walk it started raining and it continued a light down pour from 12:30pm to when we arrived at his house just South of Fenton around 4:30pm!  The early part of the morning was cool and overcast as we started out!  We wound our way around the back roads from Commerce Lake up to Denton Hill Road but when we got to M-59 we stopped at Burger King for a bite of lunch!  It was there just after noon when the rain started falling!  It was a gentle but steady rain that soaked us to the bone as we finished our lunch and started up the road again!  I really felt bad for Mark because he did not bring a hat or a rain coat or anything to combat the uncomfortableness of trekking in the 'moisture!'  I had my rain gear with me in my back pack but just did not have the heart to stop and put on my 'stuff' in front of him as he was walking along just getting drenched!  

2 "Super Soakers"
at the end of a 14 mile trek...
and most of it in the pouring rain!

So we "enjoyed" the scenery together as we walked through the countryside on the dirt roads as cars past by and wondered why two middle aged men were sloshing around in the mud out in the middle of no where...you know people were saying to themselves as they would drive by... 'what are they doing out here in the rain?'  We would just smile and wave and try to make folks think that we were enjoying ourselves!  Truth be known...it was fun being together but is was really uncomfortable!  But such is life!  Jesus said that it would rain on the "good and the bad"!  And I can tell you that it literally rained on us!  Both of us!  I just wonder which one was the good one and who was the bad?  I know it must have been me (the bad...)  for even thinking of asking someone to walk with me in the rain, through the mud for over 14 miles!  'Mark... "you are very much too good friend for me!"  This I know!  Thanks Brother!  I owe you! 


But I gotta hand it to him!  Mark, much like Jesus, sacrificed his comfort to be with me on this particular day!  It is a lesson worth experiencing!  Just knowing that he was uncomfortable but did not let that detour him from  his commitment of walking with me every step of the way today...even in the pouring rain!  For me, the persistence of Mark was just a sliver of revelation to the reality of what Jesus went through for me!   Recognizing the sacrifice of others is a starting place for us when we think that we are the only ones in the world that have a struggle or a problem and that 'no one understands' what we are 'going through'!  


Don't kid yourself!  "In this life you will have trouble, but be of good cheer, I (Jesus) have overcome the world!"  Remember these words "I will never leave you or forsake you!"


Thank you Jesus!


With my feet on the Ground... (and in the mud!)


Simply Trey

Day TWO (e) (out of order) September 6th! Trey's Trek continued...

In the Shadow of the Cross!

Luke and I saw this on the ground!  It reminded us of the sacrifice that was made on our behalf!  Sobering to say the least!  But you never know when you are going to be confronted with the reality of what Jesus did for you.  So I try to keep my heart open for what He would show me and tell me!  Because if He is showing me something, He is actually 'telling' me something!  So paying attention is a good thing!  Being sober minded is a quality that can fit anywhere, anytime...even when we are enjoying ourselves!  Being alert 'in heart' keeps the lines of communication open and makes it where Jesus can 'call at any time' and will not get a 'busy' signal! 


This is our host for the 2nd night on Trey's Trek...

My Friend Steve showing me 'how to fish' Commerce Lake!

As we got closer to our destination today we walked through a residential neighborhood there in Commerce Township.  Our friends opened up their home to us for the night.  They live right on Commerce Lake!  It is a splendid place and the hospitality that they offered was awesome!   They even took us  fishing before dark!  That was a real treat!  Here are some photos of our evening!  

Steve caught supper for us!   He is a real fisherman! 

It is a wonderful thing to have friends!  Especially when they like you and you actually like them!  Those are the best kind!  

Mrs. Grace Halford!  Luke's Wife and our Daughter imitating Steve...

Grace who is "great with child" walked A LONG WAY yesterday with us up Hines Drive!  She is a real Trooper when it comes to getting involved with what Jesus is doing!  

"Trekking Trey" with a fishing rod!   Also imitating Steve!  "Sooner or later... here fishy, fishy...!"

Steve really was an awesome fisherman the day we went out with him!  We did eat that Wall Eye that he caught for Supper and eventually I was able to hook one and reel it in!  It has been a long time since I have fished and on top of that, catch one!

I am the "Bass Man" on the boat today!  LOL!!!

To say the least, our second day of walking for "Trey's Trek" was interesting, eye opening and fun!  Now don't kid yourself... we did get tired but the hospitality of our friends Steve and Raina really helped ease the pain of sore feet, tired legs and aching backs!  Thank "Ya'll!"  You were a 'reel' blessing, as was Matthew the night before who was in the middle of moving his home from Phymouth the Detroit!  Brother, you were a gracious host in the middle of all your packing!  Bless you!

Commerce Lake at Dusk! A wonderful sight at the end of an awesome day!

We spend some time praying for Dearborn and Dearborn Assembly before we went to sleep.  I wish  it would have been different but it was another rough night of sleep!  The morning would come with a new day to Trek through and another friend to join me!  What would happen tomorrow?  Only the Lord knows but at least I would have the assurance the He would walk with us!  Thank you Jesus!

With my feet still on the Ground! (facing North!)


Simply Trey

Day TWO (d) (out of order) September 6th! Trey's Trek continued...

Racoon Paw... that's all!

This leg of the Trek to Mackinaw proved to be the 'deadliest' part of the trip for the whole 300 plus miles!  Let me explain!  

"Dead" snake by Wixom Road... you don't really see many of these in Michigan! 

Even as we moved North, we saw more dead animals on the side of the road,  from Northville Township to Commerce, than we saw on any other leg of the Trek.  There were so many of them that I started taking pictures of them.  Then I thought to my self... 'what are you gonna do with all of those photos of dead animals?   Even my son in law, Luke who was walking with me today said, that it seems that the "theme" for the day has to deal with 'death' since there are so many dead animals beside the road.


Well, I thought to myself!  'Somebody has to notice this!'  But most of the time we are so stinking busy these days; running here and there and 'doing this and that', that almost anything that is not on our own personal radar... that gets in our way, just gets run over!  So, I thought about that for a minute and came up with a conclusion that ... "YEP, THAT'S PRETTY MUCH WHAT I DO when I really get going (in my own little world)!" But thinking this through... brought to mind some other 'situations' that I have been involved with that have lead to outcomes that not only affected me personally... but others as well!   Sometimes it wasn't good!


Let me see if I can illustrate this. Check this out!  Do you know what this is?  No! It "ain't" a 'cat' with a racing stripe! 

"Pole Cat" in 'Southern' English, but "SKUNK" in regular English 

Literally, these critters... raise a stink!  A stink that affects everything!  A lasting stink that goes everywhere and gets into everything if they 'demonstrate!'   If any of you have been around an area that a 'skunk' has 'sprayed,' you will understand their effectiveness and their far reaching 'influence.'  And let me tell you.... the physical chemical make up of their spray which is really potent... most 'household remedies' according to Wikipedia "are simply ineffective" in getting rid of it.  But there is this peroxide formula that will help break down the chemical composition of the actual STUFF that is 'emitted' by the 'Pole Cat' if 'they figure' that there is some sort of threat to them!   I know some people like this!  Just the slightest intimation that they will be confronted will elicit... well, lets move on!

   

So to be helpful today...I want to give you the link to a Wikipedia Web page that will help you if you have been confronted with a skunk and want to resolve the issue!

http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Removal_of_Skunk_

Odor/Removing_Odor

So I can't help but think that there is a "strong" parallel lesson here for those of us who will pay attention to it. This is what I am thinking...

Sometimes in our attitudes and actions we get to thinking that we are just the 'cat's meow!'   With that; there are times we are not aware that our pride has overtaken our sensibilities in regards to our actions and or our attitudes and we end up disregarding others because of what 'we want.'  Selfishness becomes a huge contributor to this!   

In thinking this through... after seeing that dead skunk, I began to see that... we, like those skunks, can also really raise a stink!  And just like a skunk, our attitudes and actions can and do affect everything around us!  It can be a lasting 'stink' that goes everywhere and gets into everything if we don't allow the Holy Spirit to "put a knot in our tail", so to speak!   

Just think of a time when you have been in an area where someone or even yourself has had a 'skunky'  attitude or an action that just 'sprayed,' everything and everybody!  Even innocent people who are not involved, who are just passing by are also affected as well!  Now think back on the effects of what was 'spewed', and how it made folks  react afterwards.  Was it pleasant?  Did they remember the smell?  Do 'they' remember you?  Do they tend to avoid you the next time you show up?  Just asking!  It is something to think about.

So let me tell you what I know.... the make up of that spiritual 'Pole Cat' spray, which is really potent and damaging to relationships and situations is very difficult to fix!  In most cases... a simple "I am sorry...!"  will not remedy that offensiveness according to reality! 

But there is this real life formula that will help break down that 'lethal, spiritual, composition' of the actual offensive trespass and it is this;  "Repentance and Restitution!"   Turning completely around 180 degrees from your "Pole Cat" attitudes and ways and repairing what you affected by repaying or restoring what you damaged... is the answer.  But in practical terms, repairing what you damaged may be beyond your own ability, which in your case, you will have to have someone else replace what you destroyed or pay for it for you.     

So this is where Jesus comes in and this is not just some 'pie in the sky' stuff!  Some things that we have done in our past are just down right despicable and evil and there is no way possible, humanly speaking, to repair what we did.  So humbling ourself in admitting that we were wrong and doing what we can to remedy those situations is certaintly moving in the right direction.   So making things right is critical in bringing reconciliation.  

But still, there are costs involved in making restitution.  Forgiveness cannot be granted until justice is done!   Some restitution is so expensive that our very lives are required of us!  So what do we do?  The answer is this; go to Jesus!  If you haven't  already heard this; He has already paid a price for you with His own life that was a ransom for all of your sin (actually, all the crud that you stirred up) and He personally did not even do one single thing wrong... but He paid your penalty for you anyway, knowing that without His sacrifice, (on your behalf) that you would be facing 'life in prison' or 'the death penalty!'  Just thinking about this gives me the "willies!"  

You may ask yourself...'Why would He do such a thing?  Maybe you have heard this before and for you, it was just a glib 'cliche!'  But, "yes... Jesus does love you!"  This is why He did what He did in taking your punishment... specifically for you... yes,  just for you!  

This is my challendge!  If you can find a better way to clean up the 'skunk' in your life... have at it... but like Wikipedia said... the known remedies are simply "ineffective!"  In reality, there is only one thing in this realm that we live in that can totally remove and repair the 'skunks' in all of us!  That is the blood of Jesus!  

Simply Trey

Day TWO (c) (out of order) September 6th! Trey's Trek continued...

The Trek to Mackinaw is progressing!  When we walk from place to place the scenery is constantly changing, how be it- ever so slightly, since we are on foot.

So today when we walked from Northville Township to Commerce Township on our way up to Mackinaw, MI, the scenery  constantly transitioned from 'city' to 'residential', from residential to 'rural', from rural to just down right 'in the woods' and then back to residential again!  So we noticed that there were signs along the way that 'tell' you...'your where a 'bouts!'

Sign says.... "you ain't in town...no more!"  Watch your step!

And you will notice in this photo above that there is a rubber 'hose' that stretches across the road that is  connected to some sort of 'counter' that calculates the amount of traffic that 'steps on this hose' as the horses actually pass by here!  That has to be the reason for the sign!!!  Why else would a horse be on a big yellow sign like this on the side of the road? OK... just horsing around!

Anyway...signs are important!  'Signs' tell us about whats coming next!  They tell us when and where to stop!  They tell us when and where to yield!  They tell us that there is a bump or a dip or a curve or "slippery when (the road is) wet!"  All of these are 'warning' signs, communicating what is ahead "down the road."  They are placed there for our safety and it is for our own good and the good of everyone else on the road that we pay attention to those signs when we travel along.

Come to think about it... when a person is entertaining the responsibility of obtaining a Driving License, they have to study 'the official driving book'!   The content of that official rule book for driving... in any given state includes 'knowing the signs,' along with 'knowing the rules' of the road in any particular state wherein you desire to be licensed as a driver.  From every book that I have ever seen for those who are 'taking the drivers test' in any particular State or Country, is a section in the driving textbook that actually shows us what the signs look like. We need to study those 'signs' so when they show up 'on the road' that... first of all 'we will recognize' the signs and secondly that 'we will obey' the sign because that sign corresponds to the reality of the road!  And if we don't pay attention to the signs, we put ourselves and others who travel on the same road ... in danger!  So it is important to 'know the signs'; 'heed the sign's warnings and obey them!

For example, if there are signs, like STOP!  We need to stop!  We better stop... because there may be 'on coming traffic' that we can't see from where we are, at the moment.   Or, an intersection with a stop sign that hides our approach but the other oncoming vehicles don't have to stop from their direction because it is a blind intersection that obscures our view of their approach but they can see us.   We just don't want to end up plowing through that "STOP" sign and end up crashing into whoever is there, to our own detriment and maybe heavy loss.

I know some folks who are so anxious when they drive a vehicle that a stop sign is just 'a pretty red sign that has words on it...' and nothing more!  They don't heed the communication and because of their selfishness; damage, destruction and sometimes death occurs!   A simple sign communicating truth about any given situation that we are approaching while driving is essential to safe and effective travel.

In life, there are signs also that are placed before us that communicate realities that need to be heeded!  If we disregard those signs we end up being damaged, wrecked or wiped out...emotionally, physically, mentally, morally, monetarily or spiritually!  Of course, the worst kind of damage that can be sustained from not heeding the signs in life, is the loss of our very souls.  Signs that communicate, "the soul that sins will die."  Or, "if you don't forgive your brother who sins against you, how do you expect God to forgive you, your sins?"  I think that sometimes we just "run" those STOP signs and think that we can just make it through those intersections of hard decision with out a scratch or not ever getting a ticket!  Well, think again!  SIN KILLS!  Period!  Don't go there!  Don't run that sign!

The sign of Death which we face, every time we attend a Funeral constantly says "there is an end to this road!"  Get ready!  "PREPARE to STOP!"  None of us are going to make it out of this life alive!

Yah, Yah, I can hear some of you Christians out there right now, say... 'that's not right....Jesus is coming back and the rapture will take place and we who are alive when He comes, will rise to meet the Lord Jesus in the Clouds..."  OK, for ya'll who are "Born Again" that is a real possibility but for those who don't know anything about that... they are going to be dealing with the reality that DEATH is THE END here, then THE Judgement which is guaranteed to be their condemnation!   And that, that intersection of decision  in their life must be heeded; it must be obeyed in order for them to be saved from the spiritual "car wreck" that will come!  STOP!  LOOK!  & LISTEN!   Stop sinning long enough so Jesus can get your attention!  Look for His way of escape in whatever situation you find yourself, so you can recognize that you need His help!  Listen to His voice, because He will speak to you about your life and give you the answer to your dire situation!  Scripture says "call on me and I will show you great and mighty things you do not know."  That is a promise!  Let your heart respond to it!

'nough for now...

With my feet on the Ground

Simply Trey

Day TWO (b) (out of order) September 6th! Trey's Trek continued...

This Family affected the whole area!

As Luke and I headed up Beck Road from the corner of 7 Mile and Beck; we reached Grand River and headed North-West paralleling I-94.  Then we turned North again and walked up Wixom Road past the Ford plant that is now closed down.  Right there where the plant is located is the old Samuel Morse Home place (the man who invented the Morse Code). As a matter of fact, Becky, My wife's Grand Pa, "Rollin Morse Severance" was a direct descendant of Samuel.  Neat stuff!!!

Anyway...this house that is in front of me in this photo was the home of Mr. and Mrs. Wire.  They were some of the first folks in the area and lived their lives with integrity!  Their Godly witness and ministry to this community was evidenced by the sign that now stands there in Wixom near their former home that I am standing by!  It is folks like this, who live life with abandon and touch others with the Love of Jesus that make a difference in whole Nations and certainly small communities like Wixom!  'Money', comes and goes and can disappear in a heart beat!  'Stuff,' comes and goes and breaks,  Pleasures, last for only a little while but those folks who invest themselves in the lives of others as representatives of Jesus Christ have a lasting affect, long after they go to be with Jesus!  Then there are the benefits of Eternal life that just keep on giving!  That is an awesome thought!

The Wire House

This home was the heart beat of this area in regards to ministering to the needs of the people who were pioneers who came to Wixom.  The Marker across the Street reports a bit of what benefit this family and their home was to the area!

Just thinking about how hard it is for folks in the Detroit area these days in regards to economic issues and the  stress it causes families.  Pondering the days of the early to mid or latter 1800's can be sobering in comparison!  Knowing what they 'did not have' in regards to transportation such as automobiles and planes, furnaces in their homes and air conditioner units that keep us 'just right,' and just the "difficulty" it was in obtaining food and goods that were necessary to sustain life 'on the frontier!'   I don't think that we have anything to complain about, really! Things that we are used to "having", by just 'going to the store' and being able to purchase a gallon of milk with money we have left over from the Ice Cream we just purchased at COLD STONES or Coffee we drank from STAR BUCKS!  Getting a gallon of milk in 1850 was an ordeal!  "It was utter work!!!"  The "McDonalds Culture" has made us forget what real life is like!    I do believe we have gotten a bit soft in our 'modern era!'

And you know, thinking about the Wire Family and the struggle just to LIVE 'out there' on the Frontier and survive, not to mention opening up their tiny house to the whole area for services and ministry!  In some ways we who live in this day should be really challenged to not be so 'isolated' in our attitudes and actions.  Especially us "White Folks" who are most of the time trying to 'get away from people who are different from us!' We should keep in mind that this place is not our home!  Yah, there is nice stuff 'out there' but compared to what is coming...  It does not even hold a candle's light of significance in comparison!  Like Keith Green used to say, "this is like living in a garbage can compared to what is up there!"  So what are we building for ourselves?  Are we so short sighted that the 'here and now' is what dictates who we are and how we live and what we do?  I say... NA NA!   Let's use what we have right now to reach out where we are in whatever situation we find ourselves in!   You never know!  A tornado or a flood or 'God Forbid', an earthquake would flatten everything that we consider precious to us and then where would we be?   I just can't get away from Jesus's words about treasures here on this earth and where we need to be 'laying up' for ourselves!   I think that the way to do that is for us to do for others so when He comes for us, we will have deposited with Him Treasures in Heaven that no junk here on this earth can touch!  Halleluia!
OK... 'nough said about that!

With my feet on the Ground!

Simply Trey

We completed Trey's Trek from Dearborn to Mackinaw City, MI!

Standing under "Big Mac" after 20 days of Trey's Trek!

Dearborn, MI to Mackinaw, MI!!!  What an experience!  What a trial!  What a trip!  What a difference walking makes!  


My physical target was the farthermost point North in the Lower Peninsular of Michigan where a person could walk to...  


Yesterday, I walked into and through the town of Mackinaw City and made my way North to the bridge that crosses over to the "U.P.!" (Upper Peninsular of Michigan).  For those of you who don't know, it is a 5 mile-long suspension bridge that connects the 'Lower' and 'Upper' Peninsulas of Michigan.  


As I reached the water's edge, I walked out to about the 4 foot depth and I stood right in the middle of the bridge where Lake Michigan and Lake Huron meet!  One leg in each lake!  I guess that now I am an official "Troll" since I am "under the bridge" and "in the water!"  


The night before, friends from "down state" came up. They spent the night and were ready to tackle the last 16 miles of the Trek with me yesterday.  I have to tell you that it was an awesome encouragement to me to finish up with such faithful friends!

Mark, Jason, Me, John, Josh, Ashley

Facing the Finish Line!

About 5 miles out from Mackinaw City I spotted "Big Mac" (the bridge) for the first time!  It was a sight to see!  That massive structure which is one of the world's longest suspension bridges was my finish line in this 300 mile trek.  


As I got closer I could feel my stomach tightening like I was getting ready for the kickoff of a football game that I would have played in as a starter or getting ready to step out onto a wrestling mat after spending a couple of months getting ready for the contest!  So, I walked on toward my goal!  The closer I got the larger the structure seemed to get.  


Then as I entered the park just under the bridge I began to slow down a bit and really ponder what was actually happening here!  Besides actually walking 300 miles!; besides pushing day after day to make it in 20 days;  besides all of the hurts and pains associated with walking 'marathon length' days; I was approaching more than just a finish line!  This trek was primarily in response to the command to "walk"!  If nothing else mattered this did!  If there was no apparent reason or explanation for this event-- being obedient was enough for me!  So I did!  I walked!  And now I am standing at the water's edge, knowing that I did what I was supposed to do!  "It is finished!"  I thought to myself!

Pondering Trey's Trek to Mackinaw...

Making the Goal...mine!

Now it was time to not just reach the 'finish line' but to cross it...to gain the full victory!  So I set out to do just that!  I wanted to go the distance and in my heart--really 'get into it!'  So I did!  I got in it!

Standing in Obedience and Victory!

As I made my way out into the water, I stopped and removed my hat and thanked Jesus for the strength, the endurance, the stamina, the courage and the patience it took to get me to this point at this time in my life!  There was so much to be thankful for!  

I  guess I will not fully know the extent of what this was all about-- but I do know that every step that we took getting here was worth it and right!  Anytime that you place your feet in the steps of Jesus and walk...it is the best place for you to be! 

We made it to Mackinaw!  We all won!

   We did it!  We actually did it!  We walked to Mackinaw, MI from Dearborn, MI.  I asked them to come and they came!  I was the only one asked to 'go the distance' but my friends along the way, at different legs of the trek, joined me to make this journey doable!  Without their help and encouragement it would have 'beat me like a gub'ment mule'!  (Tony Lawson used to say that! Bless his heart!)  So every person who actually walked with me shares in the victory, shares in the joy, and has experienced the satisfaction that WE WON!  WE CROSSED THE FINISH LINE even though it hurt!  We did it!  Are we boasting?  You bet!  WE DID IT!  We finished the race!  We ran (or walked) the course!   We were out there!  

It almost seemed impossible!  At times it felt impossible as the road stretched out into miles in front of us and off into the horizon into what seemed like nothing!  BUT we put one foot in front of the other and WALKED!  And because we did not stop or quit we crossed the finish line and WE WON!  We reached our goal!  So if by any one's standards this seems like boasting... well take it for what it is worth! We were there! We won! We have the satisfaction that although it was challenging and sometimes hurtful, we put one foot in front of the other and crossed the finish line!  And with that said!  Whoever is reading this... You can cross that finish line too!  Just don't quit!  Don't quit asking question!  Don't stop trying!  Don't listen to folks who tell you that you are sorry and can't accomplish anything!  Of course there are hindrences that keep a person from accomplishing goals and 'finishing up' things you have had your heart set on.  So if that is the case, gather your courage and get back to what you know is right!  I just want to tell you, that I know for the most part... what keeps folks from doing what they are supposed to do, is sin!  I don't want to be preachy here but if the oil in your engine 'ain't' been changed since you first started out... you ain't goin' far from where you are!  Go see the Technician and get a tune up!  Get your oil changed,  your battery charged!   Let Him lube your joints and air up your tires! Some of you are a wreck... waiting to happen!  Don't be stupid!  Get to the shop and take care of things before you end up in the junk yard!  

Now... To be real about this, let Jesus, like the Master Mechanic He is, work on you and get you into shape!   So you won't end up in some junk yard of life!  Why wait until you are "an ole' junker", before you let The Manufacturer get you up to snuff!  Who likes an ugly, beat up, raggedy ole car anyway?  Let Jesus restore you to mint condition!  Why wait!  You have the key... get the 'thang' started! 

With my "sore" feet on the Ground!

Simply Trey

P.S.  now that the Dearborn to Mackinaw Trek is finished, I will have time to go back and fill in the gaps!  So look for more of Trey's Trek in the coming days!  

Fog moving in and covering 'Big Mac...'

As we were leaving we were pulling out and looked out across the lake to St. Ignace and saw this scene.  The fog rolled in and covered the whole bridge.  It was really beautiful because the sky was cloudless and so blue!  This fog eventually moved in over the Northern end of the State and covered everything!  

A hurtful interruption!

On the Road to Grayling...

I am very sad to have to inform you that my very good friend and mentor Pastor Steve Byrd, of Charlotte, NC, who was my Youth Pastor in the mid 70's and later an Associate in Winston-Salem, NC at First Assembly of God in the early to mid 80's has gone to be with Jesus... 

I am stopping the walk North to travel to North Carolina to be a part of the funeral services.  I will resume my trek North to Mackinaw on Friday from Grayling, MI.  

Trey

Day NINE (out of order) September 14th! Trey's Trek continued...

Kalim, ROBIN and Ralph

I know it has been a coon's age since I have written! 

And in reality... tonight, it has been no difference!   But I have to post something to let you know that we are still alive!  Today we walked past the 150 mile mark for the Trek as we entered Beaverton, MI.  I am still amazed that I am this far North without the help of a single car, bus, truck, bike, trike, or even an airplane! 

On our way out of Albright Shores which is a "suburb" of Beaverton, (LOL) we turned onto one of the corners and saw an awesome fruit and vegetable stand at Shock Road and Knox.  The items that were on display were gorgeous!  So the Brother's from North Carolina who drove up 16 hours, just to walk with me the last two days stopped and talked to Robin who was the person working the business and another man who was there!

We shared with her what we were doing and asked her if we could pray for her!  I told here that we have been praying for people as we have been walking to Mackinaw City.  That we would like to pray for her business... that The Lord Jesus would bless her work.  I asked her if I could post her photo on this blog and ask people to pray for her too!  So here she is!  

Oh, before we started off on our way... she gave us some fruit to take with us while we walked!  Plums that would make your tongue just jump up there and slap you up side your head because they were so good!   I have never eaten such sweet fruit!  Really... It was awesome!  So those of  you who are in the area where she is working between Beaverton and Albright Shores; you better just treat yourself and get on over there and buy up all that she has before it all goes bad!  Everything that she was selling looked really good!  Thanks Robin for providing such a good product for such a great price!  God bless your business, your family and your life!  May Jesus' touch be experienced in everything you do!

With my feet on the Ground!

Simply Trey